HNLC leaders differ over peace process

Shillong, Feb 13 (UNI) The infighting between the proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) leaders has stalled the peace process with the Centre, said a surrendered HNLC cadre here today.

The difference between tribal Khasi militant outfit chairman Julius Dorphang with ''Commander-in-Chief'' Bobby Marwein to have a peace dialogue with the government had added more problems to them with most of their cadres returning to the mainstream.

Today, altogether 12 HNLC militants, including the outfit's ''second Commander-in-Chief'' Herman Pakyntein, surrendered before Home Minister Robert Garnet Lyngdoh at Police Reserve here.

The militants deposited 520 rounds of live ammunition of various kinds, including two SBBL guns and one Russian made sniper rifle.

'' We have decided to quit HNLC and joined the mainstream since Marwein was not interested in peace dialogue, '' Marwein's ''Personal Security Officer'' Elbert Kharlukhi told UNI here after surrendering before the Home Minister.

Kharlukhi alleged that Marwein was not interested in having dialogue with the government mainly because of extortion money.

Echoing similar views, Pakyntien, the senior most HNLC cadres, who surrendered, admitted that the HNLC still received fund from the state.

'' They are not interested in negotiating with the government because of money, '' Pakyntien said adding even last year, the HNLC received fund of not less than Rs one crore from different areas of Meghalaya.

UNI